Gorilla Families in Buhoma
Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector Bwindi | Premium Africa Safaris
Buhoma sector is one of the best 5 gorilla trekking regions/areas or trailheads in Uganda.
Located in the Northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Buhoma stands out as the most preferred sector for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Over 6 habituated gorilla families in the Buhoma sector are open for trekking adventures.
The notable gorilla groups to visit in Buhoma include Mubare family, Rushegura gorilla family, Muyambi, Habinyanja, Katwe, and Binyindo gorilla families.
During the actual gorilla trekking in Buhoma, each gorilla family group is visited by a maximum of 8 (eight) guests.
Other sectors to visit for gorilla trekking in Uganda include Ntebeko in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park; Ruhija, Nkuringo, and Rushaga in Bwindi.
Like Buhoma, the rest of the gorilla sectors in Bwindi and Mgahinga have their own families that can be explored on a Uganda gorilla safari.
Detailed List of Gorilla Families in Buhoma Sector in Bwindi
Mubare gorilla family
Mubare isn’t an ordinary gorilla group in Buhoma, but the first or oldest family to be opened for tourism in Uganda.
Today, Mubare attracts several tourists on gorilla trekking tours in Bwindi.
Habituation for the Mubare gorilla family started in 1991, and in 1993, it was ready for trekking.
Mubare gorilla group began with 12 mountain gorillas led by the Ruhondeza silverback gorilla.
Unfortunately, the group encountered a few challenges that included fights or raids from other silverback gorillas.
Ruhondeza also died, thus further destabilizing the group members. With everything that happened, the Mubare family remained with about 5 gorillas.
In 2013, the Mubare family welcomed over 4 new members, which increased its composition to 9. They included Kanyonyi –their group leader.
Muyambi gorilla family
Muyambi is a fully habituated gorilla group and roams in the Buhoma region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
This gorilla family has a relatively small composition of mountain gorillas, led by the silverback Muyambi.
It was established in 2019 after the split of the Muyambi silverback from the Mubare gorilla group. The term “Muyambi” means “helper” or “assistant.”
Habinyanja gorilla family
Habinyanja group was discovered in 1997 and had a composition of up to 30 mountain gorillas led by the Mugurusi silverback gorilla.
He was seconded by Rwansigazi and Mwirima –his sons.
They shared power when he died, but due to disagreements, Mwirima left the group.
Rwansigazi remained in the main Habinyanja family, but unfortunately, Makara overpowered him.
Today, the Habinyanja family accounts for about 13 individuals. It is named after the nearby swamp (Nyanja) where it was spotted.
Binyindo family group
Binyindo gorilla family is part of the amazing gorilla families in the Buhoma region, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
It was created in 2015 and completed the habituation process in 2018.
Today, Binyindo is open for gorilla trekking, offering inspirational adventures.
It is led by a Binyindo silverback gorilla and features about 9 mountain gorillas.
Rushegura gorilla family
Rushegura departed from the Habinyanja gorilla family. It is one of the gorilla families with the highest concentration of mountain gorillas in the Buhoma sector.
About 19 mountain gorillas make up the Rushegura family. Rushegura was created in 2002 and is an interesting group to visit in Buhoma. It holds a unique story that is worth sharing.
Katwe group
Katwe gorilla family formed as a result of splits. Kanyonyi, Mubare’s former silverback leader, died, leaving most of the group members with no option but to join other families.
The majority of the female gorilla members in Mubare migrated to other new gorilla families.
Currently, the group is led by Muhaane plus 7 other group members.
What is required to trek gorilla families in Buhoma
A valid gorilla permit is an essential requirement when it comes to gorilla treks in the Buhoma sector.
Obtaining a valid gorilla family permit is possible through a trusted tour company, such as Flawless Adventure Planners Ltd.
Each valid Uganda permit costs US Dollars 800 per person, and it is advisable to book one at least 2 to 4 months in advance due to high demand.
Where to Stay in and around Buhoma Sectors in Bwindi
Places to consider for overnight stay after/before gorilla treks in Buhoma sector include Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp.
Bwindi Lodge, Engagi Lodge, and Ride 4 a Woman.
How many days do I need to trek Buhoma gorillas?
At least 3 to 4 days are adequate for you to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in the Buhoma sector.
A sensational 4-day Buhoma gorilla safari can include day one for arrival at Entebbe Airport and transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 is for you to travel from the hotel in Kigali or Entebbe to the Buhoma sector.
Day three can be dedicated to gorilla trekking and perhaps a Batwa cultural experience in the evening.
Lastly, day four can be utilized for transferring back to Entebbe, marking the end of the gorilla safari.